E. coli (Escherichia Coli) is the name of a bacterium that lives in the digestive tracts of humans and animals. E coli a common cause or infection in the urine. E. Coli infection can also be discovered in the intestines, blood and occasionally in other organs. One type, E. coli 0157:H7 can cause hemolytic uremic syndrome (HUS). HUS can result in severe bloody diarrhea, kidney failure and death. The infection arises from ingesting contaminated food or water.